Polymer Clay Reddit Comments Summary

Pros and Cons of Polymer Clay

• Pros:
  • Affordable and accessible materials
  • Allows for detailed and intricate designs
  • Can create unique and individual pieces of art
  • Variety of brands and types with different attributes
• Cons:
  • Can be expensive and hard to work with
  • May lack tradition and proper marketing
  • Considered more of a hobby or craft material instead of art
  • Some brands may be more brittle or prone to issues like cracking

Different Types and Brands of Polymer Clay

• Sculpey: Varies in types with some being more flexible and strong after baking.
• Premo: Known for its slight flexibility and vibrant colors.
• Cosclay: Appreciated for its slight bendability after baking.
• Craft Smart: Rated highly for beginners' projects.
• Fimo: Preferred for flexibility and workability by some users.

Baking and Usage Tips

• Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.
• Play around to determine the right temperature and baking time for your oven.
• Consider adding foil inside to reduce thickness and ensure proper curing.
• Allow clay to cool fully to avoid leaving fingerprints.

Safety Concerns with Polymer Clay

• Polymer clay is not meant for items in contact with heat as it can release chemicals.
• Some users advise against using polymer clay for anything consumable or close to flames.
• Market products made of polymer clay as display pieces only to prevent potential health risks.
• Some users experienced smoking and stinking issues with certain polymer clay brands.

Diversity and Popularity of Polymer Clay

• Polymer clay has seen increasing popularity, especially during the pandemic.
• There is a wide range of clay options in stores now, offering more accessibility.
• Different types and brands of polymer clay offer unique attributes for various projects.
• Polymer clay is still perceived differently from traditional art mediums but is gaining more respect as an art medium over time.